El Sacromonte neighborhood, Grenada, is located in the Valparaíso Valley, behind the Albaicín and in front of the Alhambra. This neighborhood, famous for its caves, is associated with the gypsy population of Granada. In the Sacromonte, Federico García Lorca found the inspiration to write his “Gypsy Ballads”, where he portrayed the customs of the community.
The origin of the cavesIt is believed to be in the XNUMXth century, when the Catholic Monarchs conquered the city and the Muslims and Jews left Granada to excavate caves in the mountain and settle outside the walls, in order to escape the pressure of the Christians, becoming marginalized. Then there were nomadic gypsy settlements that made the town their place, reaching today as their traditional suburb. Currently they are regular homes, restaurants, entertainment venues or rental homes for tourist accommodation.
Famous are also the Sacromontane zambras, gypsy flamenco parties that last until dawn, which have been frequented by international artists and characters from the European royal families. Recognized as one of the cradles of flamenco, we can name some of the most famous caves: That of María la Canastera, The Rocío cave o Manolo Amaya's, For example.
The neighborhood deserves a hike to climb the mountain and visit the Benedictine Sacromonte Abbey, founded in the seventeenth century, where the relics of Saint Cecilius, patron of Granada and an excellent collection of baroque paintings. Or simply stroll admiring these unique whitewashed houses nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean.
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